The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on September 16, 2025, addressing a range of agenda items, including consent approvals, budget considerations, and infrastructure projects.

The meeting commenced with the approval of a consent agenda consisting of two items. The first item involved a resolution to waive the alcohol license residency requirement for the Soleil at Belmont Community Association, allowing the neighborhood clubhouse to serve food and alcohol. The second item ratified an agreement with BMT JV Owner LLC for sidewalk remediation repairs in the Soleil Belmont Park subdivision. Both items were approved unanimously.

Following the consent agenda, the County Manager presented 13 items for consideration. The first item proposed changes to the employee medical plan for the 2026 plan year, which included increases in deductibles and co-pays to align with rising medical costs. The plan's deductibles would rise from $750 to $1,000 for individuals and from $2,250 to $3,000 for families. Employee premiums would increase by 10%. The changes were approved unanimously.

Next, the board considered a request from the SPLAFFO Railroad Department for an agreement with the State Road and Tollway Authority for a $2 million Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank loan. This funding will support the construction of Technology Ridge Parkway Phase 4 and the Airport Road spur project, which is essential for extending the runway at the Cherokee Hana Regional Airport. The motion to approve the loan agreement passed unanimously.

The meeting also addressed a construction services agreement for the Yellow Creek Conservation Area and Trails project and the Woodworth Park project, totaling over $6.5 million. This agreement was awarded to Vertical Earth LLC, and the motion was approved unanimously.

Additionally, the board approved the purchase of a 1.19-acre parcel adjacent to Woodworth Park for $390,000 to facilitate the development of the Southwest Cherokee Recreation and Senior Center. The purchase includes a life estate for the current owner, allowing them to remain on the property until their passing.

Other significant approvals included the renewal of inmate medical budget protector insurance and property and casualty insurance coverage for FY 2026, both of which were passed unanimously. The board also approved a construction services agreement for renovations to the Shaw Woodard Firearms Training Building, aimed at enhancing public safety through the establishment of a new real-time intelligence center.

The meeting concluded with several equipment purchases for the Recreation and Parks department, including mowers and a skid steer loader, all of which were approved unanimously.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to infrastructure development, employee welfare, and community services, with all motions passing without opposition.